Optimizing work processes through smart Geo-ICT

The legislation regarding excavation reports (plan requests) in the Netherlands and Belgium has undergone several changes in recent years: not only the legislation is changing but also the technical platforms are evolving. With GeoMerk Merkator has a unique SAAS solution to automate the standardized messaging required by law for both the Netherlands (KLIC) and Belgium (KLIP/KLIM). 

Besides relieving the network operators in the KLIC process, there are additional standard functionalities to support the internal processes at the customer. Meanwhile, more than 100 network operators and groundworkers rely on their SAAS solution on a daily basis. Thanks to the platform, stakeholders are always perfectly informed. But the Geo-ICT service provider has much more to offer. An interview with COO John Joosten.

It builds (custom) applications based on both various open source technology and from leading software vendors and has its own consultancy branch. "Our Geo-ICT Consultants each have their specific knowledge and experience in GIS technology and are frequently seconded to clients such as network operators, but for example, governments also use the specialized knowledge of our colleagues," says Joosten.

Cutlery checker

At least as unique as the KLIC product is the Bestekchecker. Joosten: "Bestekchecker helps inspect, improve and monitor the quality of public space. Through this platform, we support municipalities in the inspection process and help contractors visualize and handle their work inventory. This creates a nice chain cooperation in which efficiency is more than doubled. The municipality of Breda is an active user that handles the entire workflow for management and maintenance of roads in Bestekchecker. A report of, for example, a hole in the road, a tree root pressure, and so on is made in the app. Then that report with photos and specifications reaches the contracted contractor in his work inventory and he can schedule the repair. Through pre-defined specification items that the contractor can choose, amounts are translated into an invoice. Once approved by the supervisors, they can immediately be prepared for payment. This way, no discussion ever arises because all parties have the same information."

Merkator is considered one of the few fully independent Geo-ICT parties in the market. "We are currently active with almost 80 people in the Netherlands and Belgium. More and more customers choose our creative flexible solutions and professional approach," Joosten concludes.